Ulta Lab Tests

Vascular Aging & Arterial Health Baseline Panel

A comprehensive cardiovascular baseline panel evaluating ApoB, Lipoprotein (a), hs-CRP, Hemoglobin A1c, lipid profile, metabolic markers, and urinary albumin. Designed to assess vascular aging, arterial health, inflammation, metabolic function, and early kidney stress, this panel supports proactive cardiovascular risk evaluation and long-term heart health monitoring.

Urine, Serum, Blood
Phlebotomist

The following is a list of what is included in the item above. Click the test(s) below to view what biomarkers are measured along with an explanation of what the biomarker is measuring.

Also known as: Microalbumin Random Urine with Creatinine

Creatinine, Random Urine

Microalbumin

Microalbumin/Creatinine

Apolipoprotein B

Also known as: Chem 12, Chemistry Panel, Chemistry Screen, CMP, Complete Metabolic Panel, Comprehensive Metabolic Panel CMP, SMA 12, SMA 20

Albumin

Albumin is a protein made by the liver. A serum albumin test measures the amount of this protein in the clear liquid portion of the blood.

Albumin/Globulin Ratio

The ratio of albumin to globulin (A/G ratio) is calculated from measured albumin and calculated globulin (total protein - albumin). Normally, there is a little more albumin than globulins, giving a normal A/G ratio of slightly over 1. Because disease states affect the relative amounts of albumin and globulin, the A/G ratio may provide a clue as to the cause of the change in protein levels. A low A/G ratio may reflect overproduction of globulins, such as seen in multiple myeloma or autoimmune diseases, or underproduction of albumin, such as may occur with cirrhosis, or selective loss of albumin from the circulation, as may occur with kidney disease (nephrotic syndrome). A high A/G ratio suggests underproduction of immunoglobulins as may be seen in some genetic deficiencies and in some leukemias. More specific tests, such as liver enzyme tests and serum protein electrophoresis, must be performed to make an accurate diagnosis. With a low total protein that is due to plasma expansion (dilution of the blood), the A/G ratio will typically be normal because both albumin and globulin will be diluted to the same extent.

Alkaline Phosphatase

Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is a protein found in all body tissues. Tissues with higher amounts of ALP include the liver, bile ducts, and bone.

Alt

Alanine transaminase (ALT) is an enzyme found in the highest amounts in the liver. Injury to the liver results in release of the substance into the blood.

AST

AST (aspartate aminotransferase) is an enzyme found in high amounts in liver, heart, and muscle cells. It is also found in lesser amounts in other tissues.

Bilirubin, Total

Bilirubin is a yellowish pigment found in bile, a fluid made by the liver. A small amount of older red blood cells are replaced by new blood cells every day. Bilirubin is left after these older blood cells are removed. The liver helps break down bilirubin so that it can be removed from the body in the stool.

Bun/Creatinine Ratio

A ratio between a person’s BUN and blood creatinine to help determine what is causing these concentrations to be higher than normal. The ratio of BUN to creatinine is usually between 10:1 and 20:1. An increased ratio may be due to a condition that causes a decrease in the flow of blood to the kidneys, such as congestive heart failure or dehydration. It may also be seen with increased protein, from gastrointestinal bleeding, or increased protein in the diet. The ratio may be decreased with liver disease (due to decrease in the formation of urea) and malnutrition.

Calcium

You have more calcium in your body than any other mineral. Calcium has many important jobs. The body stores more than 99 percent of its calcium in the bones and teeth to help make and keep them strong. The rest is throughout the body in blood, muscle and the fluid between cells. Your body needs calcium to help muscles and blood vessels contract and expand, to secrete hormones and enzymes and to send messages through the nervous system.

Carbon Dioxide

CO2 is carbon dioxide. Measures the amount of carbon dioxide in the liquid part of your blood, called the serum. In the body, most of the CO2 is in the form of a substance called bicarbonate (HCO3-). Therefore, the CO2 blood test is really a measure of your blood bicarbonate level.

Chloride

Chloride is a type of electrolyte. It works with other electrolytes such as potassium, sodium, and carbon dioxide (CO2). These substances help keep the proper balance of body fluids and maintain the body's acid-base balance. This is a measure of the amount of chloride in the fluid portion (serum) of the blood.

Creatinine

The creatinine blood test measures the level of creatinine in the blood. This test is done to see how well your kidneys work.

Egfr African American

Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is a test used to check how well the kidneys are working. Specifically, it estimates how much blood passes through the glomeruli each minute. Glomeruli are the tiny filters in the kidneys that filter waste from the blood.

Egfr Non-Afr. American

Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is a test used to check how well the kidneys are working. Specifically, it estimates how much blood passes through the glomeruli each minute. Glomeruli are the tiny filters in the kidneys that filter waste from the blood.

GFR-AFRICAN AMERICAN

GFR-NON AFRICAN AMERICAN

Globulin

Globulins is the collective term for most blood proteins other than albumin. Identifying the types of globulins can help diagnose certain disorders. Globulins are roughly divided into three groups: alpha, beta, and gamma globulins. Gamma globulines include various types of antibodies such as immunoglobulins (Ig) M, G, and A.

Glucose

A blood glucose test measures the amount of a sugar called glucose in a sample of your blood. Glucose is a major source of energy for most cells of the body, including those in the brain. The hormones insulin and glucagon help control blood glucose levels.

Potassium

Potassium is a mineral that the body needs to work normally. It helps nerves and muscles communicate. It also helps move nutrients into cells and waste products out of cells. A diet rich in potassium helps to offset some of sodium's harmful effects on blood pressure.

Protein, Total

The total protein is the total amount of two classes of proteins, albumin and globulin that are found in the fluid portion of your blood. Proteins are important parts of all cells and tissues. Your albumin helps prevent fluid from leaking out of blood vessels and your globulins are an important part of your immune system.

Sodium

Sodium is a substance that the body needs to work properly it is vital to normal body processes, including nerve and muscle function

Urea Nitrogen (Bun)

BUN stands for blood urea nitrogen. Urea nitrogen is what forms when protein breaks down. BUN measures the amount of urea nitrogen in the blood.

Also known as: A1c, Glycated Hemoglobin, Glycohemoglobin, Glycosylated Hemoglobin, HA1c, HbA1c, Hemoglobin A1c, Hemoglobin A1c HgbA1C, Hgb A1c

HEMOGLOBIN A1C

The A1c test evaluates the average amount of glucose in the blood over the last 2 to 3 months. It does this by measuring the concentration of glycated (also often called glycosylated) hemoglobin A1c. Hemoglobin is an oxygen-transporting protein found inside red blood cells (RBCs). There are several types of normal hemoglobin, but the predominant form – about 95-98% – is hemoglobin A. As glucose circulates in the blood, some of it spontaneously binds to hemoglobin A. The hemoglobin molecules with attached glucose are called glycated hemoglobin. The higher the concentration of glucose in the blood, the more glycated hemoglobin is formed. Once the glucose binds to the hemoglobin, it remains there for the life of the red blood cell – normally about 120 days. The predominant form of glycated hemoglobin is referred to as HbA1c or A1c. A1c is produced on a daily basis and slowly cleared from the blood as older RBCs die and younger RBCs (with non-glycated hemoglobin) take their place. This test is used to monitor treatment in someone who has been diagnosed with diabetes. It helps to evaluate how well their glucose levels have been controlled by treatment over time. This test may be used to screen for and diagnose diabetes or risk of developing diabetes. In 2010, clinical practice guidelines from the American Diabetes Association (ADA) stated that A1c may be added to fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) as an option for diabetes screening and diagnosis. For monitoring purposes, an A1c of less than 7% indicates good glucose control and a lower risk of diabetic complications for the majority of diabetics. However, in 2012, the ADA and the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) issued a position statement recommending that the management of glucose control in type 2 diabetes be more "patient-centered." Data from recent studies have shown that low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can cause complications and that people with risk of severe hypoglycemia, underlying health conditions, complications, and a limited life expectancy do not necessarily benefit from having a stringent goal of less than 7% for their A1c. The statement recommends that people work closely with their doctor to select a goal that reflects each person's individual health status and that balances risks and benefits.

Also known as: C-Reactive Protein, Cardio CRP, Cardio hs-CRP, CRP, High Sensitivity CRP, High-sensitivity C-reactive Protein, High-sensitivity CRP, Highly Sensitive CRP, hsCRP, Ultra-sensitive CRP

Hs Crp

A high-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) test may be used by itself, in combination with other cardiac risk markers, or in combination with a lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) test that evaluates vascular inflammation. The hs-CRP test accurately detects low concentrations of C-reactive protein to help predict a healthy person's risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). High-sensitivity CRP is promoted by some as a test for determining a person's risk level for CVD, heart attacks, and strokes. The current thinking is that hs-CRP can play a role in the evaluation process before a person develops one of these health problems.

Also known as: Cholesterol, HDL,Fasting Lipids,Cholesterol, LDL, Fasting Lipids, Lipid Panel (fasting), Lipid Profile (fasting), Lipids

Chol/HDLC Ratio

Cholesterol, Total

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that occurs naturally in all parts of the body. Your body needs some cholesterol to work properly. But if you have too much in your blood, it can combine with other substances in the blood and stick to the walls of your arteries. This is called plaque. Plaque can narrow your arteries or even block them. High levels of cholesterol in the blood can increase your risk of heart disease. Your cholesterol levels tend to rise as you get older. There are usually no signs or symptoms that you have high blood cholesterol, but it can be detected with a blood test. You are likely to have high cholesterol if members of your family have it, if you are overweight or if you eat a lot of fatty foods. You can lower your cholesterol by exercising more and eating more fruits and vegetables. You also may need to take medicine to lower your cholesterol.

HDL Cholesterol

LDL-Cholesterol

Non HDL Cholesterol

Triglycerides

Triglycerides are a form of fat and a major source of energy for the body. This test measures the amount of triglycerides in the blood. Most triglycerides are found in fat (adipose) tissue, but some triglycerides circulate in the blood to provide fuel for muscles to work. After a person eats, an increased level of triglycerides is found in the blood as the body converts the energy not needed right away into fat. Triglycerides move via the blood from the gut to adipose tissue for storage. In between meals, triglycerides are released from fat tissue to be used as an energy source for the body. Most triglycerides are carried in the blood by lipoproteins called very low density lipoproteins (VLDL). High levels of triglycerides in the blood are associated with an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD), although the reason for this is not well understood. Certain factors can contribute to high triglyceride levels and to risk of CVD, including lack of exercise, being overweight, smoking cigarettes, consuming excess alcohol, and medical conditions such as diabetes and kidney disease.

Also known as: Lipoprotein A, Lp (a), Lp(a)

Lipoprotein (A)

Lipoprotein-a, or Lp(a) are molecules made of proteins and fat. They carry cholesterol and similar substances through the blood. A high level of Lp(a) is considered a risk factor for heart disease. High levels of lipoproteins can increase the risk of heart disease. The test is done to check your risk of atherosclerosis, stroke, and heart attack.
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The Vascular Aging & Arterial Health Baseline Panel panel contains 7 tests with 34 biomarkers .

A Comprehensive Baseline for Cardiovascular and Arterial Health

The Vascular Aging & Arterial Health Baseline Panel is a comprehensive blood and urine testing profile designed to evaluate key markers associated with cardiovascular risk, arterial health, metabolic function, inflammation, and early vascular aging. This panel brings together advanced lipid testing, inflammatory markers, glycemic assessment, metabolic evaluation, and kidney health indicators to provide a multidimensional view of cardiometabolic status.

Arterial aging is influenced by a combination of lipid imbalances, chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, oxidative stress, and endothelial dysfunction. Traditional cholesterol testing alone does not always capture the full picture of cardiovascular risk. This panel expands beyond a standard lipid panel by including Apolipoprotein B (ApoB), Lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)], and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP)—markers that offer deeper insight into atherosclerotic risk and vascular inflammation.

In addition, Hemoglobin A1c evaluates long-term glucose control, while the Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) assesses liver function, kidney function, electrolytes, and metabolic balance. The inclusion of Albumin Random Urine with Creatinine provides early detection of kidney stress and microvascular damage, which can be associated with hypertension, diabetes, and vascular disease.

Together, these tests create a structured baseline assessment for individuals and healthcare providers seeking to evaluate arterial health, identify early risk factors for cardiovascular disease, and establish objective markers for ongoing monitoring. This panel is appropriate for baseline risk stratification, preventive health evaluations, and longitudinal cardiometabolic tracking.

When and Why Someone Would Order This Panel

Establishing a Cardiovascular Risk Baseline

This panel is often ordered to establish a comprehensive baseline for cardiovascular and arterial health. Individuals with a family history of heart disease, stroke, or elevated cholesterol may benefit from expanded lipid and inflammatory testing beyond traditional cholesterol measurements. By assessing ApoB and Lipoprotein (a), this panel helps uncover inherited or particle-based risk that may not be evident from LDL cholesterol alone.

Evaluating Risk for Atherosclerosis and Vascular Aging

Atherosclerosis—the gradual buildup of plaque within arteries—is influenced by lipid particle burden, chronic inflammation, blood sugar control, and metabolic health. This panel evaluates all of these domains simultaneously. Elevated ApoB reflects the number of atherogenic lipoprotein particles, while Lp(a) identifies genetically influenced cardiovascular risk. hs-CRP measures low-grade systemic inflammation that may contribute to plaque instability and vascular damage.

Healthcare providers may order this panel when there is concern for early arterial stiffness, subclinical atherosclerosis, or cardiometabolic syndrome.

Monitoring Metabolic and Glycemic Health

Hemoglobin A1c provides insight into average blood glucose levels over approximately three months. Persistent elevations in blood sugar can accelerate vascular aging and increase the risk of coronary artery disease, peripheral artery disease, and microvascular complications. When combined with the Comprehensive Metabolic Panel, providers gain a broader understanding of glucose regulation, electrolyte balance, and organ function.

Assessing Kidney and Microvascular Health

The inclusion of Albumin Random Urine with Creatinine allows for early detection of microalbuminuria—an early marker of kidney stress and endothelial dysfunction. Subtle kidney changes may occur before symptoms develop and can signal increased cardiovascular risk.

Overall, this panel is appropriate for individuals seeking a proactive cardiovascular assessment, those monitoring existing cardiometabolic risk factors, or those working with a healthcare provider on prevention-focused care.

What Does the Panel Measure

Lipid Panel

The Lipid Panel measures:

  • Total Cholesterol

  • LDL Cholesterol

  • HDL Cholesterol

  • Triglycerides

These markers provide a foundational assessment of cholesterol balance and triglyceride levels, which are central to cardiovascular risk evaluation.

Apolipoprotein B (ApoB)

ApoB reflects the total number of atherogenic lipoprotein particles, including LDL and very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL). Because each atherogenic particle contains one ApoB molecule, this test provides a direct measurement of particle burden, offering a more precise risk assessment than LDL cholesterol concentration alone.

Lipoprotein (a) [Lp(a)]

Lp(a) is a genetically determined lipoprotein variant associated with increased risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and calcific aortic valve disease. Elevated Lp(a) is not significantly altered by lifestyle changes and may identify inherited cardiovascular risk.

High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP)

hs-CRP is a sensitive marker of systemic inflammation. Even low-grade inflammation can contribute to plaque formation and instability, making hs-CRP valuable in assessing inflammatory cardiovascular risk.

Hemoglobin A1c

Hemoglobin A1c reflects average blood glucose levels over the previous 2–3 months. It is used to evaluate glycemic control and identify patterns consistent with prediabetes or diabetes.

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)

The CMP evaluates:

  • Liver enzymes

  • Kidney function markers

  • Electrolytes

  • Blood glucose

  • Protein levels

This broad metabolic overview helps identify organ function abnormalities that may influence cardiovascular health.

Albumin Random Urine with Creatinine

This test measures urinary albumin relative to creatinine to assess early kidney damage and microvascular stress. Elevated urinary albumin can indicate endothelial dysfunction and increased cardiovascular risk.

How Patients and Healthcare Providers Use the Results

Identifying Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Risk

Healthcare providers use ApoB, Lp(a), and lipid results to assess the burden of atherogenic lipoproteins and stratify risk for coronary artery disease, carotid artery disease, and peripheral arterial disease. Elevated ApoB or Lp(a) may prompt more detailed cardiovascular evaluation or lifestyle and therapeutic discussions.

Monitoring Inflammation and Vascular Stability

hs-CRP levels help evaluate systemic inflammation that may influence plaque formation and arterial stiffness. Persistently elevated hs-CRP may support further evaluation of inflammatory contributors to vascular disease.

Evaluating and Managing Metabolic Syndrome

Hemoglobin A1c and triglyceride levels contribute to the assessment of metabolic syndrome—a cluster of conditions including insulin resistance, abdominal obesity, hypertension, and dyslipidemia. Addressing these factors may reduce long-term cardiovascular risk.

Detecting Early Kidney and Microvascular Changes

Elevated urinary albumin can indicate early kidney involvement, particularly in individuals with diabetes or hypertension. Early detection supports timely intervention and risk modification strategies.

Tracking Trends Over Time

This panel is particularly valuable when used longitudinally. Tracking changes in ApoB, A1c, hs-CRP, and urinary albumin over time helps evaluate the effectiveness of dietary changes, exercise, medical therapy, and risk-reduction strategies.

By integrating lipid, inflammatory, glycemic, metabolic, and renal markers, this panel supports a comprehensive, data-driven approach to cardiovascular and vascular health monitoring.

A Structured Approach to Understanding Vascular Aging

The Vascular Aging & Arterial Health Baseline Panel provides a multidimensional evaluation of cardiovascular and metabolic health. Rather than focusing on a single risk marker, it examines lipid particle burden, inherited risk factors, systemic inflammation, blood sugar regulation, organ function, and early kidney stress.

Arterial aging and atherosclerosis develop over time, often without obvious symptoms in early stages. Identifying risk markers early supports informed discussions between patients and healthcare providers about long-term cardiovascular health strategies.

By combining advanced lipid markers with metabolic and inflammatory testing, this panel offers a comprehensive foundation for preventive care, monitoring, and personalized health planning. It serves as an objective starting point for understanding vascular health and tracking changes over time in a clinically meaningful way.

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